L-O-V-E A FLORAL SYMBOL FOR EASTER
The Easter egg at the Dolder Grand is a floral installation that brings together floristry and art. Standing 3.5 metres high and composed of around 15’000 carnations, the piece attracts attention each year. This spring, the oversized egg once again forms the centrepiece of the Steinhalle, inviting guests and visitors to pause for a moment.
A WORD WITH MANY MEANINGS
At the heart of this year’s installation is the message “Love”. The word appears as a floral inscription on the Easter egg and remains intentionally open to interpretation. For some it represents closeness between people, for others connection, hope or care.
The inspiration for the motif can also be found in music. The jazz song “L-O-V-E”, composed by Bert Kaempfert with lyrics by Milt Gabler, describes love through an acrostic. Each letter of the word represents a quality or an observation:
L is for the way you look at me
O is for the only one I see
V is very, very extraordinary
E is even more than anyone that you adore can love
This simple and poetic structure gives the term a timeless lightness and forms the conceptual basis for the floral design.
COLOUR AS EXPRESSION
The Easter egg itself is created with carnations in deep purple. The word “Love” stands out in light green, with each letter framed by a vivid orange outline. The combination of these colours creates a clear contrast and draws attention to the central word. At the same time, it forms a vibrant composition that shapes the space of the Steinhalle in a distinctive way.
AN EXPERIENCE FOR THE SENSES
The installation appeals to more than just the eye. Thousands of fresh carnations fill the surroundings with their fragrance, creating an atmosphere that guests notice as soon as they enter the Steinhalle. The Easter egg thus becomes an experience that goes beyond the purely visual and engages the senses on several levels.
FLORAL CRAFTSMANSHIP
The floral installation was conceived and realised by Leonie Haupt and Sofia Castrignanò from the Dolder Grand floristry team. With their sense for form, colour and symbolism, they develop a new design concept for the installation in the Steinhalle each year. They understand the message “Love” as a universal symbol that leaves room for personal thoughts and interpretations.
The implementation requires careful planning and precise craftsmanship. As early as the beginning of the year, the concept, colour scheme and construction are defined. Over the course of two days, around 15’000 carnations are individually placed onto a specially constructed framework.
The Easter egg combines creative vision, floral craftsmanship and symbolic meaning. In its form, it continues a tradition at the Dolder Grand while introducing a new visual accent each year.